BelmavsMarco Polo
Belma and Marco Polo are popular dual purpose hops. Below you'll find a comparison of alpha and beta acids, aroma profiles and oil composition.
Belma
Alpha acid
8.5–12.1%
Beta acid
4–8%
Total oil
1–2.5 mL
United States
Marco Polo
Alpha acid
12–13%
Beta acid
4.5–5.5%
Total oil
-
China
Key differences
When to pick Belma
- Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
- More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
When to pick Marco Polo
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
Aroma profile and use
No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.
Only in Belma
OrangeMelonStrawberryPineappleGrapefruitBerryCitrusTropical
Only in Marco Polo
GooseberryOreganoElderflower
Property
| Property | Belma | Marco Polo |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 8.5–12.1% | 12–13% |
| Beta acid | 4–8% | 4.5–5.5% |
| Co-humulone | - | 30–35% |
| Total oil | 1–2.5 mL | - |
| Myrcene | 65–68% | 40–50% |
| Humulene | - | 15–25% |
| Caryophyllene | - | 8–12% |
| Farnesene | - | 0–1% |
| Origin | United States | China |
| Purpose | Dual purpose | Dual purpose |